Why Tim Duncan's Historic NBA Career Has Gone Completely Under The Radar

Tim Duncan is just three wins away from going back to the NBA finals at the age of 37. But despite already having four championship rings and two MVP trophies, Duncan is still somewhat of an anonymous figure in a league that breeds superstars.

Many factors have contributed to Duncan’s under-the-radar success, from his upbringing, to his unusual longevity in college, and the city where he now plays home games.

In addition, Duncan’s success came in the shadows of some of the game’s greats, and his titles came at some unlucky times.

On the next few pages we’ll take a closer look at just how Duncan has been so successful without all the accolades of lesser players.

Duncan grew up in St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, so he was not on the radar of American media like many young basketball stars

Duncan didn't even start playing basketball until ninth grade. Prior to that he had dreams of becoming an Olympic swimmer and was a top U.S. junior swimmer in the 400 freestyle.

When Hurricane Hugo destroyed his local pool in 1989, Duncan was forced to practice in the ocean. He later said swimming lost its appeal because there were no competitions at this time.

This is the court where Duncan's high school basketball team played games.